With the advent of globalization, coming close on its heels is labor flexibility.  This paper attempts to provide a scenario of labor flexibility, and looks at some factors that may lead to its growth or contraction.

The presentation is divided in three parts.  It starts with a discussion of the employment trends among women, as well as the nature and magnitude of selected flexible working arrangements in the Philippines.  This is followed by the prognosis of employment trends, and a presentation of ideas on how labor and employment policies concerning flexibility may be harmonized with the national policy on women.

Flexible work has both advantages and disadvantages.  Thus, guiding principles must be established to mitigate the downbeat impacts that accompany development.  Social and economic objectives must also be held in equilibrium to attain both objectives.

The study adds that the current situation of women workers make it doubly difficult for them to overcome their vulnerability. Socio-cultural factors are purported to be the main reason for their predicament.

Among the recommended measures to help rectify the situation include reforms in employment policies to eliminate gender discrimination; active promotion of human resources development program for women; and advocacy programs on gender sensitivity.